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$300 Budget - help

I've spent time reading this forum, so I've gotten some good ideas already, but hoping for some feedback nonetheless.

I listen to classic jazz (instrumental and vocals) only. I love CDs, it's all I have ever known. I was in an audio store a year or so ago demoing an Arcam cdplayer, and the salesman put on a favorite cannonball adderley album of mine, but on vinyl. I forget what player he was using, but he said it was entry level. I was taken back by the warmth of the sound -- not as clear as the CD, but there was something amazing about the sound of the record that I just can't put my finger on.

Anyway, I want to try vinyl. My current system is as follows: Exposure Super XV integrated amp (apparently it has a good phono stage); Arcam CD73 cdplayer; Wharfedale Pacific Evo 8 bookshelf speakers; psaudio duet power center; audio art cabling throughout.

I only have about $300 to spend (just bought a home). If I like vinyl, in a few years I'll spend hundreds or thousands on a high-quality record player, but for now I just want to see if it's something I will like.

The Rega P1 seems like the recommended choice. Would you agree? What cabling do I need?

Thank you,
David
dmloring
dmloring OP
34 posts
 
Thanks all for the responses. I think we've beat the strip-club analogy to death, but I get the picture.

Part of the reason I want to go vinyl is that my father has a nice collection of Bill Evans and Sinatra recordings. They survived a flooding, so while they look "ok" they may not actually play well, but I do have access to some records to start.

That Technics SL1200 player seems really cheap looking and built for DJ's rather than listeners. Am I missing something?
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the technics is quite good actually.
zenblaster
504 posts
 
Do not go by the looks of the Technics, it is built like a tank. Do a quick search on Technics or go to www.kabusa.com. Under $1k you will not find a better built table and it is a blast to play. Easy to set up and a great upgrade path. One thing I would stay away from is a used Technics table from eBay, a lot are beat to death. Yes, they are popular with dj's. Because they are extremely overbuilt. They are very heavy and just feel like a well machined tool. You are going to have to determine if the sound is for you but one thing is certain there isn't a more overbuilt table anywhere near it's price.
dmloring OP
34 posts
 
Probably a silly question, but why does it matter if it's built like a tank? Good build quality is one thing, but it would sit on my audio stand and not move for 5 years. Anyway, it sounds like I have to find some audio stores and demo some equipment.
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
I'm surprised nobody has mentioned a used Thorens. Besides the SL1200, and later get the KAB mod, this might be the best bargain out there.
Spending on a new table at this price point is a bad idea for any music lover. Seriously.
A live demo is probably not going to be available. Read up, buy used, cross fingers, take plunge, put a couple of $1's in her garter belt & enjoy. Cheers,
Spencer
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